Interior monitoring systems

Driver drowsiness detection based on the driver‘s steering behavior

The driver‘s steering behavior is an indicator for the onset of drowsiness. The driver drowsiness detection is based on an algorithm, which analyzes the driver’s steering behavior during the trip based on information from the steering-angle sensor. It recognizes changes over the course of long trips, and thus also the driver’s level of fatigue. Even small changes in the steering behavior that are barely noticeable to the driver are typical signs of waning concentration. Based on the frequency of these movements and other parameters, among them the length of a trip, use of turn signals, and the time of day, the function calculates the driver’s level of fatigue. If that level exceeds a certain value, an icon such as a coffee cup flashes on the instrument panel to warn drivers that they need a rest.

The driver drowsiness detection has been successful on the market for years already. It is a pure software solution without the need for additional sensors other than the steering-angle sensor. Thus it can easily be integrated into existing vehicle platforms. The function is suitable to meet the emerging legal requirements.

Driver monitoring

The driver monitoring camera monitors the alertness and condition of the driver. It can detect distraction, drowsiness, and microsleeps and can alert the driver in time.

Facial recognition makes it possible for the system to identify the driver with absolute certainty. Based on the stored driver profile, the system can then automatically set personal comfort and convenience settings such as optimal seat and mirror positions, the favorite radio station, or the preferred interior temperature.

In future automated vehicles, it will be necessary to know whether the driver is capable of taking back control of the vehicle in critical situations.

Safety and convenience

The interior monitoring system makes it possible to implement innovative interaction interfaces, such as gesture control. This enables the driver, for instance, to skip to the next song with a simple hand movement without looking away from the road. This reduces distraction and at the same time improves the user experience.

In automated driving situations, drivers can assume a more relaxed posture, since they no longer have to be permanently actively driving the vehicle. Furthermore, in hazardous situations, the system can adjust the seat position so that the occupants are brought into a safe sitting position that ensures they are optimally protected in the event of a collision.